Eastern Oregon University > Mountaineer Magazine > Summer/Fall 2024 > Connections Fuel Success 

Connections Fuel Success 

The 2023 Homecoming Parade, The MOuntaineer March, heads down Adams Street in downtown La Grande. (EOU photograph / Michael K. Dakota)

EOU prides itself on creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for its students. Recognizing the critical link between student connections and academic success, EOU builds a sense of belonging through campus vitality initiatives, including club activities, special events, student-faculty-staff competitions, and more.

Under the leadership of President Kelly Ryan, EOU has expanded these efforts, encouraging all departments to contribute to a lively campus environment throughout the academic year.

“We’ve prioritized joy and connection in everything we do, from karaoke nights and drum circles to caramel apple dipping and root beer float socials,” President Ryan said. “These are designed to provide students with moments of joy and connections between classes, and significantly enhances their campus experience.”

One of the innovative programs showcasing this effort is the Week of Welcome (WOW). Designed to help connect new students with one another and the larger community, the week is packed with activities including tug-of-war battles, cornhole tournaments, concerts, bonfires, and even a few trainings about classes and campus life, each intended to embrace the EOU spirit.

Eastern Oregon University (EOU) welcomed freshman on Wednesday, Sept. 20, with a Week of Welcome. Students took a day to have fun, play games and meet others at the Blue Mountin 4H Camp. (EOU photograph/Michael K. Dakota)

Kathryn Shorts, Director of Student Success and Transition, is dedicated to getting students out of their comfort zones to develop new friendships and build a sense of community at EOU.

“Our goal is to ensure every student feels like an integral part of the campus,” Shorts explains. “We want them to feel connected because that connection is crucial for their overall success.”

Students echo Kathryn’s sentiments, highlighting the positive impact of these initiatives.

Natanya Reed found WOW instrumental in forming lasting friendships that inspired her to become a WOW Student Leader.

“It’s been rewarding to see how the connections I made during WOW have lasted and helped me here at EOU,” Natanya said.

With over 50 clubs and organizations, students have numerous opportunities to pursue their passions and gain new perspectives. 

EOU’s student-centered approach is succeeding, with retention rates climbing each term. This spring, the University achieved 82.1% overall retention.